A short time ago, I was sitting here, speaking with friends who share my interests, having a good time with those who were around. One of the men stood, crossed to the tavern mantle, took down a simple rock, and another man stood with him to discuss things a moment. Afer a few moments, they both called me over, and asked me to join them, and so, I rose...

...and pledged my loyalty to the Home Stone of the Silk & Steel Tavern.

While I was speaking with these men, fellow citizens of a shared ideal, I stood at my desk, and took my own Home Stone in my hands. I held in my hands, while holding in my heart, the symbol which represents the Community I have been involved with for the past year. Two men stood for me, and asked me into the community; and I accepted, and was accepted, by these men, and the others they represented at that moment.

Nothing can compare...no military ceremony, or religious practice...no club, no troupe, no election...

Although I have yet to physically see this simple rock, and many of these men are still but words on the screen which pass by randomly at times, I know that they are thought of by me, and think of the community to which we belong.

When I first set foot in the tavern, one year ago...one of the first things I said, after a long talk with one of these men, was that I felt I had finally found what I was lacking in my life -- I had finally found a home. And now, a year later, I can truly say it is my home.

My journey is not yet over; it is barely just beginning. But I know what I will find along the way, and I know there are men who have been there, and can show me the way; men who have come before, and remember where they have been...

I wish you well,

Greylin `//olffe